Sunday, February 25, 2024

3rd Inf Div: LOOK//Gov't forces launch precision air strike targeting rebel remnants in NegOcc

Posted to the Philippine Army 3rd Infantry Division Facebook Page (Feb 24, 2024): LOOK//Gov't forces launch precision air strike targeting rebel remnants in NegOcc

The Army’s 79th Infantry (Masaligan) Battalion launched a precision air strike targeting rebel remnants using two (2) Agusta Westland-109 Attack Helicopter Nighthawk (AW-109AH) from the Philippine Air Force at Sitio Mansulao, Barangay Pinapugasan, in Escalante City, Negros Occidental on February 22, 2024.
 
The operation aims to get rid of remnants of fleeing members of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in response to the series of encounters that started on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, resulting in the death of three CTG members and wounding of four (4) soldiers, including a CAFGU Active Auxiliary.

During airstrikes, authorities adhere to strict guidelines, emphasizing careful risk assessment to mitigate collateral damage. Various factors, including the proximity of residential zones, utilities, and livestock, undergo a thorough evaluation. This method underscores the importance of safeguarding civilian lives and limiting property damage. Such measures are integral to ensuring responsible and effective military operations while minimizing adverse impacts on communities.

The interoperability among troops and night fighting capability underscores the strategic approach to rooting out the persistent threat posed by the CTGs.

In his official statement, Mayor Beboy Yap of Escalante expressed deep concern over the ongoing encounters and pledged that the local government will take proactive measures to restore peace in the town.
 
“Ang syudad sang Escalante hugot nga ginakondena ang maong kagubot sa atong syudad nga mikalas ug kinabuhi ug mi-angol sa pipila ka mga katawhan. Akong ginahangyo ang atong mga kaigsoonan nga mga armadong rebelde nga unta maathagan ug hunungon na ang pagsukol ug hinaot nga mudesisyon nga mubalik sa sabakan sa atong gobyerno (The city of Escalante strongly condemns the recent turmoil in our city that has resulted in loss of lives and caused suffering to several individuals. I urge our fellow armed rebels to cease the conflict and hope that they will decide to return to the fold of our government),” Mayor Yap said.
 
“Bisan pa man sa kalisod sa sitwasyon, atong ginapasiguro sa katawhan sa Escalante nga atong ginahimu ang tanang angay buhaton aron pabilin nga luwas kitang tanan sa peligro, ug matabangan sa atong local nga gobyerno kadtong naapektuhan sa mga panghitabo karon. Hugot usab ang atong komunikasyon sa tanang ahensya sa gobyerno mahitungod niini nga panghitabo. Padayon kita sa pag-ampo nga unta magkahiusa kita aron atong makab-ot ang kalinong ug katawhay sa atong syudad sa Escalante ug nasud Pilipinas. (Despite the difficulty of the situation, we assure the people of Escalante that we are doing everything necessary to keep everyone safe from danger and to assist those affected by the current events. Our communication with all government agencies regarding these incidents is also strong. Let us continue to pray that we may unite to achieve peace and prosperity for our city of Escalante and our nation, the Philippines),” he added.

For his part, MGen Marion R Sison, Commander of the 3rd Infantry (Spearhead) Division, said that the Army would remain steadfast in its commitment to completely eradicate armed groups in Negros and assures the public that no local residents were harmed during the airstrike.
 
“This effort reflects our commitment to decisively confront and neutralize the remnants of the insurgent forces, thereby safeguarding communities and promoting stable internal peace and security in Negros Island,” MGen Sison said.

The AW-109AH is a four-bladed aircraft with two turboshaft engines and retractable tricycle landing gear. Its secured radio communication system, electronic optical/infrared sensor, flight director, weather radar, IFR equipment and precision weapons capabilities provide day and night lethal fire support to surface forces with less collateral damage. The 18th Attack Squadron is operating these newly acquired air assets.

The AW-109AH was utilized to support the AFP’s tactical air operations, including close air support, limited interdiction, and counter-air operations.


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